Squeegee bucket fluid fill device and system

Abstract

Systems and sub-systems for supplying squeegee buckets with automobile windshield washer fluid. Some systems include a fluid containing reservoir elevated above the squeegee buckets so as to gravity feed the buckets. One system includes a fluid quantity sensor coupled to a squeegee bucket for indicating a predetermined low fluid quantity in the squeegee bucket, calling for the addition of fluid. The fluid quantity sensor can be coupled directly or indirectly to a controllable fluid supply source to add fluid into the squeegee bucket interior. Some systems have continuous or analog fluid quantity sensor outputs while other systems have discreet fluid quantity sensors indicating that a low limit has been reached. Some systems utilize level sensors while other systems utilize weight sensors. One system includes a level sensor in the form of a float adapted to trigger an electrical switch upon reaching a low level. When the low level limit is reached, a valve in fluid communication with a fluid supply source is opened to allow fluid flow into the squeegee bucket interior. Some systems allow a predetermined time flow of fluid or a predetermined volume flow of fluid. Other systems terminate flow into the squeegee bucket when a high level fluid quantity is indicated, for example, by a high level limit being reached by a level switch. Systems can also include logic within controllers to detect leakage and/or pilferage and further logic to limit or stop excessive fluid usage through pilferage or leakage. The invention allows continuous replenishing of windshield washer squeegee buckets, not requiring frequent human action to refill the buckets. The present invention can be used in lightly staffed or completely unstaffed, 24-hour gasoline service stations and convenience stores, providing windshield washer fluid with minimal personnel costs.